From rolling hills and vineyards to vibrant fruit stands and days on the lake, Peachland is a year-round destination for many in B.C., and home to close to 6,400 residents. Practically run by volunteers, the lakeside town is full of charm and community spirit. So much so, in fact, that it was recently named “Canada’s kindest community.”
Canada’s kindest community
Following a nationwide search and 5,400 submissions, Peachland received an overwhelming amount of praise from heartfelt visitors. This included stories of Peachland residents opening their homes to those displaced by wildfires, and nominations of volunteer-run organizations like the Peachland Wellness Centre and the Community Food Bank.
To reward their efforts and help Peachland further uplift its community, the Central Okanagan Foundation received $100,000 from Coca-Cola’s “Canada’s Kindest Community” campaign.
“Peachland is a community that shows up for one another, and that generosity is something we see every day,” says Abbie Norrish, interim managing director at the Central Okanagan Foundation. “This $100,000 gives us an exciting opportunity to work with the community to build on the connections and care that already make Peachland such a special place.”
Now in its second year, the initiative is all about recognizing the humanity of Canadians from coast to coast.
“From Colinet, Nfld., to Chemainus, B.C., and Iqaluit in Nunavt, we received thousands of submissions – many of which were deeply personal nominations and many more were focused on the acts of neighbours and community groups,” shares Tony Chow, president of Coke Canada Bottling. “Each one was meaningful. Together, they show that kindness is contagious, and alive and well in communities across Canada.”
A bold 19th-century beginning
In the late 19th century, only the boldest individuals dared to venture into the Okanagan Valley, according to the District of Peachland. It wasn’t until 1885 and the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway that settlement west of the Rockies really took off, leading to a wave of new communities being created, including Summerland, Penticton, Naramata, and Peachland. By 1898, Peachland had its first schoolhouse, which is still standing today, as well as its first post office.
Ready to add Peachland to your spring or summer road trip map? The community has plenty of gorgeous nature trails to explore, dining opportunities, and family-friendly activities to add to your itinerary. So the next time you plan a trip to the Okanagan, Canada’s kindest community absolutely warrants a visit.
How to get there: Drive three hours and 50 minutes from Vancouver to Peachland via Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 E, BC-5 N and BC-97C.
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